Pin alarm tag

ABSTRACT

An alarm tag comprising a first input unit for generating signals for setting (to ON) or resetting (to OFF) an alarm system of the alarm tag. The alarm tag further includes a second input unit for generating signals for arming the alarm tag and triggering an alarm, and an independent auxiliary input unit that generates independent signals that arm the alarm tag and trigger an alarm. When both the second and the auxiliary input units generate a first signal, the alarm system of the alarm tag is armed and set to ON, and when any of the second and third auxiliary input units generate a second signal while the alarm tag is armed and ON, the alarm system of the alarm tag triggers an alarm, thereby preventing tampering and bypassing of one of the second and auxiliary input units to disarm the alarm.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application claims the benefit of priority of the co-pending U.S.Utility Provisional Patent Application No. 61/183,058, filed Jun. 1,2009, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated byreference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

(1) Field of the Invention

This invention relates to electronic article surveillance and, moreparticularly to pin alarm tags with an auxiliary alarm triggeringmechanism.

(2) Description of Related Art

Most convention alarm tags include a pin that couples an article to thealarm tag. These types of conventional alarm tags can easily be tamperedwith to circumvent the pin connection with the alarm tag. That is, forexample, the pin itself may be physically cut from outside the alarm tagto disconnect the alarm tag from the article to which the tag iscoupled, without actually, fully removing the pin out from the alarmtag. State otherwise, a lower portion of the pin will physically remainwithin the inside of the alarm tag housing, with an electrical alarmcircuit remained closed while an upper section of the pin that isextended outside the alarm tag housing that connects the article to beprotected with the alarm tag is cut, releasing the article withouttrigger an alarm.

Accordingly, in light of the current state of the art and the drawbacksto current alarm tags mentioned above, there remains a long standing andcontinuing need for an advance in the art of EAS and theft deterrenttags that makes the tags more difficult to defeat while providing asecure and reliable engagement of the article to be monitored.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides an alarmtag, comprising:

-   -   a first switch for resetting an alarm system of the alarm tag to        OFF;    -   a second switch and a third auxiliary switch, and    -   a triggering unit that senses and detects surveillance signals        to generate a detected surveillance signal that triggers an        alarm; and    -   when both the second and third auxiliary switches are actuated        the alarm system of the alarm tag is armed and set to ON; and    -   when any of the second and third auxiliary switch is deactivated        while the alarm tag is armed and ON, the alarm system of the        alarm tag activates an alarm, thereby preventing bypassing of        one of the second and third switch to disarm the alarm.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the second switch is activated by a fastener that secures an        article to the alarm tag.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the fastener includes a grip portion to enable a handling of the        fastener, and a fastener end that is inserted through an article        and inserted through an aperture of the alarm tag, interlocking        the article with the alarm tag, with the fastener end coupled        with a first contact mechanism that is electrically coupled with        the alarm system of the alarm tag, the combination of which form        a closed switch that completes a circuit for setting the alarm        system of the alarm tag.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the fastener end couples within a lock of the alarm tag        comprised of:    -   a housing having small top section with an aperture for        receiving the fastener end;    -   oblique walls that slope and coupled the small top section to a        larger bottom section, forming a substantially cone configured        housing;    -   the housing includes:    -   metal pieces that are biased to the small top section by a        biasing mechanism, with the biasing mechanism located at the        larger bottom section that pushes the metal pieces toward the        small top section, forcing the metal pieces to touch;    -   the fastener end of the fastener when inserted within the        aperture moves the metal pieces away from each other and towards        the sloped walls of the housing, which compel and direct the        metal pieces down against the biasing mechanism toward the        larger bottom section, with the metal pieces pushed and biased        against the fastener end of the fastener, securely maintaining        and locking the fastener end therein frictionally.

Still a further exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the metal pieces are forced toward the larger bottom section of        the housing by a magnetic, moving the metal pieces away from the        tip, reducing the frictional grip of the metal pieces with the        tip to enable removal and release of the fastener.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the metal pieces are ball bearings within a metal cylinder that        holds the ball bearings symmetrically in place.

Yet another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the first contact mechanism is a receptacle and is comprised of        a first contact and a second contact that are separated by a gap        that accommodates the fastener, and when inserted, the fastener        closes the gap between the first and the second contacts to set        the alarm.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the first and the second contacts have an axial length that        longitudinally is substantially parabolic, with a base of the        contacts facing one another.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the third auxiliary switch is actuated in conjunction with the        second switch to a closed position, which completes a circuit        for arming the alarm system of the alarm tag.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the first switch is a magnetic switch that when closed, resets        and disarms the alarm if the second switch and the third        auxiliary switch are open.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the triggering unit is a signal detector that senses a        surveillance signal and triggers the alarm system upon detecting        the surveillance signal if the first switch is open and the        second and third auxiliary switches are closed.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the signal detector is a ferrite coil, and the surveillance        signal is a magnetic signal that is detected by the ferrite        coil.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm system for an alarm tag, comprising:

-   -   a first input unit for resetting the alarm system;    -   a second input unit for coupling an article with the alarm tag        and arming the alarm tag; and    -   an auxiliary input unit that is independent of the first and the        second input units, but set in conjunction with the second input        unit to one of a first and second condition;    -   a triggering unit that senses and detects surveillance signals        to generate a detected surveillance signal that triggers an        alarm; and    -   wherein when both the second input unit and the auxiliary input        unit are set to the first condition, the alarm system of the        alarm tag is armed and set to ON; and    -   wherein when any of the second input unit and the auxiliary        input unit is set to the second condition while the alarm tag is        armed and ON, the alarm system of the alarm tag triggers an        alarm.

Yet another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan alarm system for an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   setting the second input unit to the first condition        automatically sets the auxiliary input unit to the first        condition, and setting the second input unit to a second        condition sets the auxiliary input unit to the second condition.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an alarm system for an alarm tag, further comprising:

-   -   a microprocessor that receives input signals from the first, the        second, and the auxiliary input units, and a fourth input unit,        and generates output signals that actuate one or more output        units.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm system for an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the first input unit is a first sensor switch that outputs a        first signal when closed to reset and disarm the alarm tag and        generates a second signal when open to maintain status quo;    -   the second input unit is an interlock sensor switch that outputs        a third signal when closed, coupling an article with the alarm        tag and arming the alarm tag, and generates a fourth signal when        open to trigger an alarm;    -   the auxiliary input unit is an auxiliary sensor switch that        outputs a fifth signal when closed to arm the alarm tag, and        generates a sixth signal when open to trigger an alarm; and    -   the fourth input unit is a triggering unit that generates a        seventh signal to trigger an alarm.

Still a further exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an alarm system for an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the triggering unit is a ferrite coil that detects a magnetic        surveillance signal and generates the seventh signal for        triggering an alarm if the second and auxiliary input units are        closed.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm system for an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the seventh signal is amplified by an amplifier for further        processing.

Yet another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan alarm system for an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the microprocessor is initialized when the first signal is        received.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm system for an alarm tag, comprising:

-   -   a first sensor switch for resetting the alarm system of the        alarm tag to OFF;    -   a second interlocking sensor switch for coupling an article with        the alarm tag and arming the alarm tag; and    -   a third auxiliary sensor switch that is independent of the first        sensor switch and the second interlocking sensor switch, but set        in conjunction with the second interlocking sensor switch to arm        the alarm tag;    -   wherein when both the second interlock sensor switch and the        third auxiliary sensor switches are closed, the alarm system of        the alarm tag is armed and set to ON; and    -   wherein if the second interlocking sensor switch is tampered,        the third auxiliary sensor switch opens to trigger the alarm.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an alarm system for an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   closing of the second interlocking sensor switch automatically        closes the third auxiliary sensor switch to arm the alarm tag,        and tampering with the second interlocking sensor switch opens        the third auxiliary sensor switch.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides amethod for power management of an alarm, comprising:

-   -   providing input signals and determining if the input signals        meet a predetermined condition;    -   if the input signals do not meet the predetermined condition,        generating a low power mode operational signal to thereby reduce        power usage;    -   if the input signals do meet the predetermined condition, then        determining if a supplied power is greater than a first        threshold;    -   if the supplied power is not greater then the first threshold,        ceasing the operation of the alarm; otherwise, determining if        supplied power is greater than a second threshold;    -   if the supplied power is not greater than a second threshold,        outputting a low power supply indicator and arming the alarm;        otherwise, generating indicators that the alarm is armed.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides a method for power management of an alarm, further comprising:

-   -   determining if an antenna signal is received for triggering an        alarm;    -   if an antenna signal is not received, determining if two of the        input signals meet the predetermined condition and if so,        periodically generating an indicator at specified time intervals        that the alarm is armed;    -   if any one of the two of the input signals do not meet the        predetermined condition, determining if another of the input        signals meets the predetermined condition and if so, resetting        the alarm, otherwise, triggering the alarm;    -   if an antenna signal is received, triggering an alarm and        determining if one of the input signals meets the predetermined        condition and if so, determining if another of the input signals        meets the predetermined condition, and if so resetting the        alarm, otherwise, triggering the alarm.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm system for an alarm tag, comprising:

-   -   a plurality of input units associated with a corresponding        plurality of independent mechanical and electrical circuitry,        including:    -   a first input unit that outputs a first signal to reset and        disarm the alarm tag and generates a second signal to maintain        status quo, with the first and second signals processed through        a first independent mechanical and electrical circuitry;    -   a second input unit that outputs a third signal to arm the alarm        tag, and generates a fourth signal to trigger an alarm, with the        third and fourth signals processed through a second mechanical        and electrical circuitry;    -   a third input unit that outputs a fifth signal to arm the alarm        tag, and generates a sixth signal to trigger an alarm; with the        fifth and sixth signal processed through a third mechanical and        electrical circuitry; and    -   a fourth input unit that generates a seventh signal to trigger        an alarm, with the seventh signal processed through a fourth        mechanical and electrical circuitry.

Yet another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention an alarmsystem for an alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   the first input unit is a first sensor switch, comprised of a        magnetic switch;    -   the second input unit is an interlocking sensor switch;    -   the third input unit is an inconspicuous auxiliary switch that        is set in conjunction with the interlocking sensor switch to arm        the alarm tag; and    -   the fourth input unit is a triggering unit that senses and        detects surveillance signals to generate the seventh signal that        triggers an alarm; and    -   wherein when both the interlock sensor switch and the auxiliary        switch are closed, the alarm system of the alarm tag is armed        and set to ON; and    -   wherein if the interlocking sensor switch is tampered, the        auxiliary switch opens to trigger the alarm.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides analarm The alarm tag, wherein:

-   -   a radial protrusion of an underneath surface of the grip section        is fully inserted and housed inside a cavity, surrounded by        periphery wall that protects the fastener plug member against        tampering.

Such stated advantages of the invention are only examples and should notbe construed as limiting the present invention. These and otherfeatures, aspects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent tothose skilled in the art from the following detailed description ofpreferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments, taken together with thedrawings and the claims that follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It is to be understood that the drawings are to be used for the purposesof exemplary illustration only and not as a definition of the limits ofthe invention. Throughout the disclosure, the word “exemplary” is usedexclusively to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.”Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to beconstrued as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

Referring to the drawings in which like reference character(s) presentcorresponding part(s) throughout:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are exemplary illustrations of a first and second sidesof a pin alarm tag in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are exemplary illustrations of the pin alarm tag ofFIGS. 1A and 1B, progressively illustrating the removal of a fastenerplug mechanism and an opening of an inconspicuous auxiliary armingswitch in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 2C and 2D are exemplary illustrations of a fastener plug mechanismin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2E is an exemplary illustration of the pin alarm tag of FIGS. 1A to2D, with the fastener plug mechanisms unplugged and removed and theinconspicuous auxiliary switch in a fully open position in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a first internal chamber of afirst member of the pin alarm tag of FIGS. 1A to 2E in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of mechanical interconnections andcircuitry of an alarm system of the pin alarm tag of FIGS. 1A to 3 in asecond internal chamber of a second member of the pin alarm tag inaccordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 5A to 5F are enlarged close-up views of an area of a secondinternal chamber, which is shown in dashed line in FIG. 4 in accordancewith the present invention;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are exemplary schematic illustrations of an alarm systemof the present invention in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 7 is an exemplary illustration of a flow chart, which illustrates apower management and functionality of the alarm tag of FIGS. 1A to 6B inaccordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of presently preferred embodimentsof the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms inwhich the present invention may be constructed and or utilized.

For purposes of illustration, programs and other executable programcomponents are illustrated herein as discrete blocks, although it isrecognized that such programs and components may reside at various timesin different storage components, and are executed by the dataprocessor(s) of the computers. Further, each block within an illustratedflowchart may represent both method function(s), operation(s), or act(s)and one or more elements for performing the method function(s),operation(s), or act(s). In addition, depending upon the implementation,the corresponding one or more elements may be configured in hardware,software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

The present invention provides an improved alarm tag that includes afirst switch for resetting an alarm system of the alarm tag to OFF, asecond switch that is a fastener that secures an article to the alarmtag and when closed, arms the alarming system of the tag and activatesan inconspicuous auxiliary third arming switch that is used toindependently arm the alarming system of the tag (in conjunction withthe second switch). When both the second and third switches areactuated, the alarm system of the alarm tag is armed and set to ON; andwhen one of the second and third switch is deactivated (e.g., opened)while the alarm tag is armed and ON, the alarm system of the alarm tagactivates (or triggers) an alarm, thereby preventing potential bypass orcircumvention of one of the second and third switch to disarm the alarm.Stated otherwise, the inconspicuous auxiliary switch may trigger analarm if the second switch is tampered. Accordingly, the presentinvention provides a theft deterrent tag that is difficult to defeat,while providing a secure and reliable engagement of the article to bemonitored.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the present invention provides a pin alarmtag 100 having a fastener plug member 102 (the second switch) that iscoupled with a housing 104 of the pin alarm tag 100. The housing 104 ofthe pin alarm tag 100 includes a first member 106 coupled with a secondmember 120, forming a hollow internal chamber within which is mounted analarm system. The first member 106 includes a visual indicator aperturefor viewing of a visual indicator device 108 and a protuberance 114 thathouses a lock mechanism 306 (FIG. 4) for locking the fastener plugmember 102. The second member 120 includes an aperture 206 (FIG. 2E) foraccommodating the fastener plug member 102. The first member 106 and thesecond member 120 include perforated areas that form the grill-openings110 of the housing 104 for output of an audio indicator sound. Torelease an article, deactivate, and reset the alarm to OFF, alarm tag100 is brought into contact with well-known suitable (in terms ofmagnetic strength, for example) magnetic detacher that resets aninternal magnetic switch 605 (FIG. 5E) within the pin alarm tag 100,enables the release and removal of the fastener plug member 102, and theoverall disarming of the pin alarm tag 100.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are exemplary illustrations of the pin alarm tag ofFIGS. 1A and 1B, progressively illustrating the removal of a fastenerplug mechanism 102 and an opening of an inconspicuous auxiliary armingswitch 202 in accordance with the present invention. FIGS. 2C and 2D areexemplary illustrations of the fastener plug mechanism 102 in accordancewith the present invention, and FIG. 2E is an exemplary illustration ofthe pin alarm tag 100 of FIGS. 1A to 2D, with the fastener plugmechanisms 102 unplugged and removed and the inconspicuous auxiliaryswitch 202 in a fully open position in accordance with the presentinvention. As stated above, the magnetic detacher resets (or closes) theinternal magnetic switch 605 (FIG. 5F) and enables the fastener plugmember 102 to be removed from the housing 104 of the pin alarm tag 100without triggering an alarm. As best illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D, thefastener plug member 102 includes a grip portion 230 to enable ahandling of the fastener, and a fastener end 204 that is insertedthrough an article (not shown) and inserted through an aperture 206(FIG. 2E) of the pin alarm tag 100. The fastener end 204 interlocks thearticle (not shown) with the alarm tag 100, with the fastener end 204coupled with the pin alarm tag 100 to set (or arm) the alarm systemtherein. The shape, size, and physical features of the fastener plugmember 102 may be varied.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2E, the alarm tag 100 furtherincludes the switch 202 (the auxiliary switch, detailed below) that isset (or closed) in combination with the fastener plug member 102 to setthe alarm system of the pin alarm tag 100. That is, in use, when thefastener plug member 102 is inserted through the article (not shown) andinserted through the aperture 206, as it is further pressed, the bottom,underneath surface 250 of the grip section 230 contacts and pressesagainst the article, which, in turn, contacts and presses against theswitch 202 (best illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B), which is normallybiased to a protruded up and out position, interlocking the article withthe pin alarm tag 100. More specifically, a radial protrusion 252 of thebottom, underneath surface 250 of the grip section 230 physicallycontacts the article that in turn, contacts the switch 202 to therebyactivate (or close) this inconspicuous auxiliary alarming switch 202.This way, both the fastener plug member 102 and the switch 202 closetheir respective electrical circuits to activate and set (or arm) thealarm system of the pin alarm tag 100. It should be noted that theradial protrusion 252 of the underneath surface 250 of the grip section230 is fully inserted and housed inside a cavity 254 (best illustratedin FIG. 2E), surrounded by the periphery wall 256 of the cavity 254. Theperiphery wall 256 of the cavity 254 further protects the fastener plugmember 102 against tampering.

When either the fastener plug member 102 or the switch 202 are tamperedand deactivated while the pin alarm tag 100 is armed and ON, the alarmsystem of the pin alarm tag 100 activates (or triggers) an alarm,thereby preventing bypassing of the alarm device. That is, for example,as best illustrated in FIG. 2B, if the fastener end 204 near the grip230 is severed, the grip 230 will fall off to enable release and removalof an article. The fastener end 204 may be severed near the grip 230while the rest of the lower section of the fastener end 204 continues tophysically and electrically remain in contact with the alarm tag 100,without activating (or triggering) the alarm. However, severing the grip230 will also remove the support for the inconspicuous auxiliary switch202 underneath the grip 230, which maintains the switch 202 in a closedposition. Accordingly, the fastener end 204 may be physically cut fromoutside the pin alarm tag 100 to disconnect the pin alarm tag 100 (nearthe grip 230) from the article (not shown) to which the alarm tag 100 iscoupled, without actually fully removing the fastener plug member 102out from the alarm tag 100, or trigger of any alarm. However, the switch202 (which is biased out) will be activated (or opened), preventingcircumvention of the alarm system. That is, if the faster plug member102 is tampered, the inconspicuous auxiliary switch 202 opens to triggerthe alarm.

It should be noted that an independent electrical circuitry isassociated with the fastener plug member 102, and another independentelectrical circuitry is associated with the inconspicuous auxiliaryswitch 202. Accordingly, the electrical circuit associated with thefastener plug member 102 remains in a closed-circuit condition if thefastener end 204 physically remains in contact with the its associatedelectrical circuit to generate a closed-circuit condition while theextended outside portion thereof that connects the article to the alarmtag 100 is cut, releasing the article without triggering an alarm.However, when fastener end 204 is severed near the grip 230 to releasean article, there will be no grip 230 to press and support the switch202 in its closed position, releasing the switch 202 to its biasedprotruded open position, which will trigger the alarm circuitry. Thatis, opening of the switch 202 generates an open-circuit condition in theindependent electrical circuit associated with the switch 202, whichtriggers the alarm. Therefore, the alarm tag 100 of the presentinvention provides multiple switching and alarm circuits that canindependently trigger an alarm, and function in conjunction together toprevent unauthorized disarming of the pin alarm tag 100.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are exemplary illustrations of the pin alarm tag 100 withthe housing 104 physically separated into its first member 106 (FIG. 3)and second member 120 (FIG. 4), including the internal chamber 304 ofthe first member 106 and the internal chamber 302 of the second member120. The internal chamber 304 of the first member 106 includes lockmechanism 306 and a visual indicator aperture 314 for viewing of thevisual indicator device 108 (housed in the internal chamber 302 of thesecond member 120). The transducer 308 (FIG. 4) is housed within cavity402, and the remaining circuitry of the alarm system are housed in theinternal chamber 302, including a power source and a well-knownelectronic article surveillance (EAS) tag 312.

As best illustrated in FIG. 3, the internal chamber 304 of the firstmember 106 houses the lock mechanism 306, which interlocks with thefastener end 204 of the fastener plug member 102. The lock mechanism 306is within a concaved portion of the internal chamber 304, with theconcaved portion externally forming the protuberance 114 (FIG. 1A) ofthe first member 106. The lock mechanism 306 includes a housing 404(positioned within a polymer resin structure 413) having small topsection 405 with an aperture 408 for receiving the fastener end 204. Thehousing 404 of the lock mechanism 306 includes oblique walls 410 thatslope and couple the small top section 405 to a larger bottom section407, forming a single piece, substantially cone configured housing 404.The housing itself internally includes metal pieces 409 that are biasedtowards the small top section 405 by a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring411), with the biasing mechanism located at the larger bottom section407 that pushes the metal pieces 409 toward the small top section 405,forcing the metal pieces 409 to contact. It should be noted that themetal pieces (in non-limiting exemplary form of ball bearings) arepositioned within a metal cylinder 415 that holds the ball bearingssymmetrically in place. Nonetheless, the fastener end 204 of thefastener plug member 102 when inserted within the aperture 408 moves themetal pieces 409 away from each other and towards the sloped walls 410of the housing 404, which compel and direct the metal pieces 409 downagainst the biasing mechanism 411 toward the larger bottom section 407,with the metal pieces 409 pushed and biased against the fastener end 204of the fastener plug member 102, securely maintaining and frictionallylocking the fastener end 204 therein. In fact, the greater the pull onthe fastener plug 102, the higher the frictional force acts on it, whichfurther prevents the fastener plug from being pulled out of aperture408.

To release and unlock the fastener end 204 so to remove the fastenerplug member 102, the pin alarm tag 100 is brought into contact with themagnetic detacher, which pulls in and forces the metal pieces toward thelarger bottom section of the housing 404, against the push of theinternal biasing mechanism. This moves the metal pieces away from thefastener end 204, relieving to reduce the frictional grip of the metalpieces with the fastener end 204 to enable removal and release of thefastener plug member 102. A non-limiting example of metal pieces usedmay comprise of ball bearings. As further illustrated, the chamber 304further includes a substantially cylindrical protrusion 406 thataccommodates a biasing mechanism 512 (FIG. 4) for the auxiliary switch202, and includes the cavity 402 that accommodates the transducer 308.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of the mechanical interconnectionsand circuitry of the alarm system of the pin alarm tag 100 in theinternal chamber 302 of the second member 120. In particular, FIG. 4 isan overview of the internal chamber 302 of the second member 120,illustrating one or more input periphery devices such as an electronicarticle surveillance (EAS) tag 312. The EAS tag 312 may be construed asa triggering unit that detects and or generates surveillance signals totrigger an alarm. The non-limiting examples of EAS tags may include amagnetically sensitive device, a Radio Frequency (RF) sensitive device,or others. A non-limiting example of a magnetic sensitive device is asignal detector in the form of a ferrite coil 312, and a non-limitingexample of the surveillance signal may be a magnetic signal that isdetected by the ferrite coil 312. Ferrite coils 312 are well-known, andcan have various configurations, including different types of coilconfigurations. It should be noted that an EAS tag may actuate the alarmof the pin alarm tag 100 as well as actuating an external securitysystem such as a security gate alarm (e.g., a security pedestal).

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the pin alarm tag 100 includes a plurality ofindependent mechanical and electrical circuitry respectively associatedwith the fastener plug member 102, the switch 202, the EAS tag 112, andthe magnetic switch 605. When the fastener plug member 102 is fullyinserted into the aperture 206, the fastener end 204 contacts a firstcontact mechanism 510, which is electrically coupled with the alarmsystem of the pin alarm tag 100. When the fastener end 204 of thefastener plug member 102 is coupled with the first contact mechanism510, the combination of both form a closed switch that completes acircuit to form a closed-circuit for setting (or arming) the alarmsystem of the pin alarm tag 100. In addition, when switch 202 is closed,it contacts a plunger arm 506 of a plunger switch 504 for setting (orarming) the alarm. That is, when switch 202 is closed, it completes itsrespective electrical circuit for setting the alarm system. The generalarea illustrated by the dashed line indicated generally by the referencenumber 502 in FIG. 4 is illustrated in FIGS. 5A to 5F, which closelyillustrates the mechanical and electrical connections of the componentsof the alarm system within the housing 104 of the pin alarm tag 100.

FIGS. 5A to 5F are enlarged close-up views of the area of second member120, which is shown in dashed line 502 in FIG. 4. As illustrated inFIGS. 5A to 5F, the first connector mechanism 510 functions as areceptacle that accommodates the fastener plug member 102 insertedthrough the aperture 206 of the second member 120, with the fastenerplug member 102 finally interlocked (frictionally) with the lockmechanism 306. The fastener end 204 is coupled with the first contactmechanism 510 that is electrically coupled with the alarm system of thepin alarm tag 100. The first contact mechanism 510 is comprised of areceptacle structure 606 that is secured within a receptacle chamber608, with the receptacle structure 606 including a first contact 602 anda second contact 604 that are separated by a gap 601 that accommodatesthe fastener end 204, and when inserted, the fastener end 204 closes thegap 601 between the first and the second contacts 602 and 604 tocomplete the electrical circuitry associated therewith and set (or arm)the alarm. As best illustrated in FIG. 5F, the respective first and thesecond contacts 602 and 604 have an axial length that longitudinally issubstantially parabolic, with a base of the contacts facing one anotherto form the gap 601.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 5A to 5F, the internal chamber 302houses the switch 202 that contacts the plunger arm 506 of the plungerswitch 504 for setting the alarm. The switch 202 is coupled with thesecond member 120 and surrounded by a biasing mechanism 512 that biasesthe switch 202 to its open position, protruding from the second member120 (best illustrated in FIG. 2E). As the switch 202 is pressed down, itpushes against the biasing mechanism 512, with the internal structure ofthe switch 202 (best illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5A to 5E) actuating theplunger arm 506 of the plunger switch 504, which is electrically coupledwith the alarm system of the pin alarm tag 100, the closure of whichcompletes the circuit associated with the auxiliary switch 202 forsetting (or arming) the alarm system of the alarm tag 100. As bestillustrated in FIG. 5E, when the switch 202 is pushed from the exteriorof the second member 120 to set (or arm) the alarm, the entire auxiliaryswitch 202 moves along the reciprocating path 612. The movement of theswitch 202 along the reciprocating path 612 enables the beveled distalsection 620 of the switch 202 to contact the plunger arm 506 to move theplunger arm 506 along its reciprocating path 610. This closes theplunger switch 504, the closure of which completes the circuitassociated with the switch 202 for setting (or arming) the alarm systemof the pin alarm tag 100. Accordingly, the insertion of the fastenerplug member 102 and the actuation of the auxiliary switch 202 sets (oralarms) the alarm system of the pin alarm tag 100. The magnetic detachermay be used to reset the EAS magnetic switch 605 (shown in FIG. 5F) andat the same time to release and unlock the fastener plug member 102 fromthe lock mechanism 306 and unplug it from the receptacle or firstcontact mechanism 510. The removal of the fastener plug member 102 inturn releases the switch 202, opening the plunger switch 504. FIG. 5Fincludes an exemplary illustration of a well-known magnetic switch 605,non-limiting example of which may include a hall effect switch, reedswitch, or any other magnetic or proximity switches or any combinationsthereof. When closed, the magnetic switch 605 resets (disarms) the alarmsystem and when open, maintains the status quo.

As stated above, the pin alarm tag 100 includes a plurality ofindependent mechanical and electrical circuitry respectively associatedwith the magnetic switch 605, the fastener plug member 102, theauxiliary (or secondary) switch 202, and the EAS system in the form ofthe EAS tag 312. That is, the magnetic switch 605 (a first input unit)has associated with it a first independent mechanical and electricalcircuitry, the fastener plug member 102 (a second input unit) hasassociated with it a second mechanical and electrical circuitry, theinconspicuous auxiliary switch 202 (a third input unit) has associatedwith it a third mechanical and electrical circuitry and finally, the EASsystem (a fourth input unit) has associate with it a fourth mechanicaland electrical circuitry. FIGS. 6A and 6B are exemplary schematicillustrations of the alarm system of the present invention, includingall input units and their respective associated circuitry. In FIG. 6A,the dashed line indicated as reference 780 is best illustrated in FIG.6B, which represents the fastener plug member 102 (and the associatedfirst contact mechanism (or receptacle) 510, the switch 202 (with theassociated plunger mechanism 504/506), and the magnetic switch 605. Asillustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, to activate the pin alarm tag 100, thefastener plug member 102 is inserted through the aperture 206 within thehousing 104, with the fastener end 204 contacting the first contactmechanism (receptacle) 510, which closes the gap 601 to close the“switch C” illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B. The closing of the switch Cpulls to ground the power Vcc at one end via a current limiting resistor715. When the switch C is closed, the output of the first contactmechanism 510 is pulled low and set to “0,” and inputted to a firstinput line 758 of one or more input lines of a microprocessor 703 foractivation (or arming) of the alarm device of the pin alarm tag 100. Asbest illustrated in FIG. 6B, the mechanical plug/receptacle arrangement102/510 is schematically represented by the switch C. It should be notedthat the switch C is virtual and is for illustrative purpose only.Switch C is used only to represent the open and closed circuitconditions of the plug/receptacle arrangement 102/510. Accordingly, theillustrated switch C is a representation of open or closed condition ofa circuit plug/receptacle 102/510.

As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the “switch B” represents theauxiliary switch 202/plunger 504 combination. To activate (or arm) thepin alarm tag 100, the switch 202 is pushed from the exterior of thesecond member 120 to set (or arm) the alarm, with the entire switch 202moving along the reciprocating path 612 (FIGS. 5A to 5E). The movementof the switch 202 along the reciprocating path 612 enables the beveleddistal section 620 of the switch 202 to contact the plunger 506 to movethe plunger 506 along its reciprocating path 610. This closes theplunger switch 504, the closure of which completes a circuit (closing ofthe switch B represented in FIGS. 6A and 6B) for setting (or arming) thealarm system of the alarm tag 100. The closing of the switch B pulls toground the power Vcc at one end via a current limiting resistor 713.When the switch B is closed, the output of switch B is pulled low andset to “0,” and inputted to a second input line 714 of one or more inputlines of a microprocessor 703 for activation (or arming) of the alarmdevice of the pin alarm tag 100. The “switch A” illustrated in FIGS. 6Aand 6B represents the switch magnetic switch 605 (illustrated in FIG.5F). When the pin alarm tag 100 is brought into contact with themagnetic detacher, the magnetic switch 605 is reset (or closed—therepresentative “switch A” closes, with line 705 pulled to low (“0”)).This enables the alarm system to be reset, deactivating the entire alarmsystem to OFF (if switch 102 is out and the switch 202 is open). Openswitches “A” and “B” respectively represent the out condition of switch102 and the open condition of switch 202).

As further illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the alarm system includes ageneral-purpose microprocessor 703 (also shown in FIG. 5F and referencedas 626) mounted onto a PCB with an internal memory (e.g., an EEPROM)that includes a set of instructions. The microprocessor 703 receives oneor more input signals from one or more input periphery devices andgenerates one or more processed output signals for actuation of one ormore periphery output devices. The processing of data may include Analogto Digital (A/D) or D/A conversion of signals, and further, each inputor pin of the microprocessor 703 may be coupled with variousmultiplexers to enable processing of several multiple input signals fromdifferent input periphery devices with similar processing requirements.Non-limiting examples of one or more input periphery devices mayexemplarily include the fastener plug member 102, the inconspicuousauxiliary switch 202, the magnetic switch 605, and the EAS tag 312.Non-limiting examples of one or more output periphery devices mayexemplarily include the use of vibration mechanisms, audio, visual orany other indicators to alarm and notify a user regarding an occurrence.

As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6A, the pin alarm tag 100 may use afirst input periphery device in the form of the electronic articlesurveillance (EAS) device coupled with an EAS connector 702, with theEAS device comprised of the EAS tag 312. As illustrated, a first outputof the EAS connector 702 is coupled with ground GND, and a second outputof the EAS connector 702 is coupled with an amplifier 710 to generate anamplified signal from the EAS tag 312. The amplifier 710 increases thesignal strength form the ferrite unit of the EAS tag 312 sufficientlyfor further processing by the alarming circuit. The amplifier 710 iscomprised of a current limiting resistor 704 that limits the currentinput to the base of the transistor 706, with the transistor 706 incombination with the transistor 701 functioning to amplify the signal(current and voltage) from EAS connector. The transistors 706 and 701are comprised of an exemplary Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJT). Itshould be noted that present invention should not be limited to theamplifier 710 illustrated, and other conventional amplifiers may also beused. Further, the amplification need not be performed by the BJT, butcan be done by other transistors, such as Metal Oxide Semiconductors(MOS) or MOS field effect transistors (MOSFETS), operational amplifiers,transformers, or the like, other passive or active devices, or anycombinations thereof.

The amplifier 710 amplifies the output of the EAS tag 312, and theamplified signal (from the collector of the transistor 701) is input tothe microprocessor 703 via the input line 716 as one of one or moreinput signals, where the microprocessor 703 converts the analogamplified signal into a digital signal for processing. This signal istranslated by the instructions (algorithm) within the EEPROM of themicroprocessor 703 to determine if the signal came from the transmitters(pedestals); if so, the microprocessor 703 trigger the alarm (e.g.,audio and or visual indicators). It should be noted that one or more ofthe one or more processed output signals may be pulsed output signals onoutput line 710 to one of the one or more periphery output devices, forexample, for actuation of a transducer unit 740 to generate an audioalarm signal.

The transducer unit 740 is actuated by an amplified pulsed output signalthat is output from the microprocessor 703 via line 710, and furtheramplified by an output amplifier 752. The output amplifier 752 iscomprised of a BJT transistor 750 with an emitter coupled to ground, acollector coupled to a transformer 748 of the transducer 740, and a basethat is coupled with a current limiting resistor. The transistor 750amplifies the pulsed output signal from line 710 to alternately drivethe transformer from high Vcc to ground and vice versa, with thetransformed pulsed signal driving a ceramic transducer 742 to generatean audible alarm. It should be noted that well-known software routinewithin the microprocessor 703 may generate this pulsed output, which isamplified by the transistor 750. In addition to the generation of anaudible alarm, as further illustrated, other output periphery devicesmay include the use of a visual indicator 746 that use LEDs 108 tonotify users of an occurrence. The visual indicator 746 is coupled withline 790 of the microprocessor 703. As indicated above, other outputperiphery devices not illustrated may also easily be accommodated andconnected with the microprocessor 703.

As further illustrated, pins 1 and 14 of the microprocessor 703 arerespectively coupled to Vcc and ground GND via a filter capacitor 726,which power the microprocessor 703. The power is supplied to the powerconnector 718 and provided as the power Vcc to the circuit. Themicroprocessor 703 is further coupled via its pin 2 to ground throughanother filter capacitor 712. The crystal 730 coupled to pin 13 is usedto facilitate a clocking signal to the microprocessor 703. That is, itstabilizes the frequency of the clock in the microprocessor 703. Pins 10and 11 are respectively for reset and test of the microprocessor 703,which is through a connector 754 that enables the testing and reset ofthe microprocessor 703. The testing and reset enable determination ofsignaling of the microprocessor 703, for example, to determine if themicroprocessor 703 functions based on “0” or “1” input signal level totrigger a device. In this exemplary instance, the microprocessor 703will trigger an output periphery device when the input is pulled to high(or “1”). For example, when the fastener plug member 102 is cut, theswitch 202 is opened, pulling the line 714 to Vcc (high or “1”), whichtriggers an alarm. The reset pin 10 is coupled with the reset circuit732, which includes a current limiting resistor 734 that is coupled atone end to Vcc and other end to a capacitor 736, with the other end ofthe capacitor 736 coupled to ground. The reset pin 10 is coupled at thejunction of the resistor 734 and capacitor 736.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary flow chart, which illustrates the powermanagement and functionality of the microprocessor 703 for the alarm tag100. As illustrated, upon start of the program at the operational act802, the microprocessor 703 initializes at the operational act 804. Atthe next operational act 806 the microprocessor 703 determines if theswitch 102 and 202 (FIGS. 6A and 6B) are closed. If at the operationalact 806 it is determined that the switches 202 and 102 are not closed,the microprocessor 703, at operational act 810, outputs a low power modeoperational signal (e.g., sleep mode), with the operation reverting toinitialization at operational act 804. If the microprocessor 703determines that the switches 202 and 102 are closed, then at theoperational act 812 the microprocessor 703 determiners if supplied poweris greater than a first threshold level. If at the operational act 812it is determined that supplied power is not greater than a firstthreshold level, the device becomes non-functional. Otherwise, if at theoperational act 812 the microprocessor 703 determines that suppliedpower is greater than the first threshold, the microprocessor 703, atthe operational act 816, determines if the supplied power is greaterthan a second threshold level, with the second threshold level beinggreater than the first threshold level. If the microprocessor 703determines that the supplied power is not greater than a secondthreshold level, the microprocessor 703 at the operational act 818activates various output periphery units in a predetermined manner toindicate low supply of power, but continues and arms the alarm tag toprotect an article. If the microprocessor 703 determines that thesupplied power is greater than the second threshold level, the alarm tagis set (or armed), and various indicators are activated to indicate tousers that the article is protected.

To continue with the flowchart of FIG. 7, the microprocessor 703 at theoperational act 822 determines if an antenna signal is received fromassociated EAS equipment. If the microprocessor 703 determines that anantenna signal is received, at the operational act 824, themicroprocessor 703 activates an alarm. A non-limiting example for suchan alarm incident (or condition) is the actual removal of the article towhich the pin alarm tag 100 is connected from a store, passing themthrough a surveillance zone. This will activate the EAS tag unit 312 totrigger a signal, which will be amplified and input to themicroprocessor to activate (or trigger) the alarm. Further, at theoperational act 801 the microprocessor 703 determines if the auxiliaryswitch 202 is open. A non-limiting exemplary reason for checking todetermine if the switch 202 is open at the operational act 801 after analarm incident (at the operational act 824) is that, may be an actualauthorized person is in the process of properly disarming the pin alarmtag 100 after an alarm incident at the operational act 824. That is, thepin alarm tag 100 and the article to which the tag 100 is coupled arebrought to an authorized store personal to be properly disarmed. If atthe operational act 801 it is determined that, the switch 202 is notopen, at the operational act 824 the alarm is continuously activated. Inother words, the pin alarm tag 100 has still not been disarmed.Otherwise, it is most likely that the fastener plug member 102 has beenremoved and the switch 202 is open. In the case where the switch 202 isopen, the operational act 844 is executed where the microprocessor 703determines if the magnetic switch 605 is closed by the magneticdetacher. That is, for example, the fastener plug member 102 is removed(either by an authorized person or tampered—severed), the switch 202 isopen, and the microprocessor 703 now determines if the magnetic switch605 of the tag 100 is closed by a magnetic detacher. In other words, hasan authorized personal properly neutralized the magnetic switch 605 toinitialize the pin alarm tag 100 using the magnetic detacher. If so,then the pin alarm tag 100 and its microprocessor 703 initialize (i.e.,execute operational act 804). That is, the fastener plug member 102 isremoved properly, the switch 202 is open, and the magnetic switch 605 isnow closed by the magnetic detacher and therefore, the pin alarm tag 100is properly neutralized wherein the microprocessor 703 reverts to theoperational act 804. Otherwise, the pin alarm tag 100 continuouslyalarms. That is, at the operational act 801, it is determined that theauxiliary switch 202 is open (while, may be) the fastener plug member102 is tampered. That is, the grip 230 of fastener plug member 102 issevered, which releases (opens) the auxiliary switch 202, triggering thealarm.

Referring back to the operational act 822, if the microprocessor 703determines that no antenna signal was received at the operational act822, the microprocessor 703, at the operational act 840 determines ifthe switch 202 is open and at the operational act 842, it determines ifthe fastener plug member 102 has been removed. If the microprocessor 703determines that the switch 202 is open and or the fastener plug member102 is removed, at the operational act 844 the microprocessor determinesif the magnetic switch 605 has been closed by the magnetic detacher. Ifso, microprocessor 703 is initialized (operational act 804). Otherwise,an alarm is triggered at operational act 824, which indicates an actualtampering of the tag 100. On the other hand, if the microprocessor 703determines that the fastener plug member 102 and the switch 202 areclosed, at functional act 830 a determination is made regarding a timerto determine if a predetermined time has been reached. If at functionalact 830 it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed, anindicator is output and the timer is reset, where the microprocessor 703then repeats operational functional act 822, which is to determine if anantenna signal has been received. The output indicator 832 is an audioand or visual indicator that enables a user to determine if the tag 100is properly armed. The microprocessor 703 output a visual and or audioindicator periodically (while the tag 100 is armed) at specifiedpredetermined time intervals T.

Although the invention has been described in considerable detail inlanguage specific to structural features and or method acts, it is to beunderstood that the invention described and shown in the drawings shouldnot be limited to the specific features or acts described and shown.Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary,preferred forms of implementing the invention. Stated otherwise, it isto be understood that the phraseology, terminology, and variousmeasurements (if any) employed herein (and shown in drawings) are forthe purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the inventionhave been described and shown, numerous variations and alternativeembodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. For example,replacing the switches 102, 202, and 605 with infrared sensorcircuit/switches, a motion detector circuit, an accelerometer circuit, amagnet detector circuit, a radiation detection circuit, any other typesof sensor circuit or switch combinations thereof is possible. Suchvariations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, thelabels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse,clockwise, counter clockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such asupper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal,distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. havebeen used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to implyany particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used toreflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations betweenvarious portions of an object.

In addition, reference to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. membersthroughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) is not used toshow a serial or numerical limitation but instead is used to distinguishor identify the various members of the group.

In addition, any element in a claim that does not explicitly state“means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing aspecific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step”clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112, Paragraph 6. Inparticular, the use of “step of,” “act of,” “operation of,” or“operational act of” in the claims herein is not intended to invoke theprovisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, Paragraph 6.

What is claimed is:
 1. An alarm tag, comprising: a first switch forresetting an alarm system of the alarm tag to OFF; a second switch and athird auxiliary switch, and a triggering unit that senses and detectssurveillance signals to generate a detected surveillance signal thattriggers an alarm; and when both the second and third auxiliary switchesare actuated the alarm system of the alarm tag is armed and set to ON;and when any of the second and third auxiliary switch is deactivatedwhile the alarm tag is armed and ON, the alarm system of the alarm tagactivates an alarm, thereby preventing bypassing of one of the secondand third switch to disarm the alarm; wherein the triggering unit is asignal detector that senses a surveillance signal and triggers the alarmsystem upon detecting the surveillance signal based on a predeterminedset of switching of conditions of one or more of the first, second, andthird switches.
 2. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 1, wherein: thesecond switch is activated by a fastener that secures an article to thealarm tag.
 3. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 2, wherein: thefastener includes a grip portion to enable a handling of the fastener,and a fastener end that is inserted through an article and insertedthrough an aperture of the alarm tag, interlocking the article with thealarm tag, with the fastener end coupled with a first contact mechanismthat is electrically coupled with the alarm system of the alarm tag, thecombination of which form a closed switch that completes a circuit forsetting the alarm system of the alarm tag.
 4. The alarm tag as set forthin claim 3, wherein: the fastener end couples within a lock of the alarmtag comprised of: a housing having small top section with an aperturefor receiving the fastener end; oblique walls that slope and coupled thesmall top section to a larger bottom section, forming a substantiallycone configured housing; the housing includes: metal pieces that arebiased to the small top section by a biasing mechanism, with the biasingmechanism located at the larger bottom section that pushes the metalpieces toward the small top section, forcing the metal pieces to touch;the fastener end of the fastener when inserted within the aperture movesthe metal pieces away from each other and towards the sloped walls ofthe housing, which compel and direct the metal pieces down against thebiasing mechanism toward the larger bottom section, with the metalpieces pushed and biased against the fastener end of the fastener,securely maintaining and locking the fastener end therein frictionally.5. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 4, wherein: the metal pieces areforced toward the larger bottom section of the housing by a magneticfield, moving the metal pieces away from the tip, reducing thefrictional grip of the metal pieces with the tip to enable removal andrelease of the fastener.
 6. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 5,wherein: the metal pieces are ball bearings within a metal cylinder thatholds the ball bearings symmetrically in place.
 7. The alarm tag as setforth in claim 3, wherein: the first contact mechanism is a receptacleand is comprised of a first contact and a second contact that areseparated by a gap that accommodates the fastener, and when inserted,the fastener closes the gap between the first and the second contacts toset the alarm.
 8. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 7, wherein: thefirst and the second contacts have an axial length that longitudinallyis substantially parabolic, with a base of the contacts facing oneanother.
 9. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the thirdauxiliary switch is actuated in conjunction with the second switch to aclosed position, which completes a circuit for arming the alarm systemof the alarm tag.
 10. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 1, wherein:the first switch is a magnetic switch that when closed, resets anddisarms the alarm if the second switch and the third auxiliary switchare open.
 11. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 1, wherein: thetriggering unit is a signal detector that senses a surveillance signaland triggers the alarm system upon detecting the surveillance signal ifthe first switch is open and the second and third auxiliary switches areclosed.
 12. The alarm tag as set forth in claim 11, wherein: the signaldetector is a ferrite coil, and the surveillance signal is a magneticsignal that is detected by the ferrite coil.
 13. An alarm system for analarm tag, comprising: a first input unit for resetting the alarmsystem; a second input unit for coupling an article with the alarm tagand arming the alarm tag; and an auxiliary input unit that isindependent of the first and the second input units, but set inconjunction with the second input unit to one of a first condition and asecond condition; a triggering unit that senses and detects surveillancesignals to generate a detected surveillance signal that triggers analarm; and where when both the second input unit and the auxiliary inputunit are set to the first condition, the alarm system of the alarm tagis armed and set to ON; and where when any of the second input unit andthe auxiliary input unit is set to the second condition while the alarmtag is armed and ON, the alarm system of the alarm tag triggers analarm; wherein the triggering unit is a signal detector that senses asurveillance signal and triggers the alarm system upon detecting thesurveillance signal based on a predetermined set of switching conditionsof one or more of the first, second, and third switches.
 14. The alarmsystem for an alarm tag as set forth in claim 13, wherein: setting thesecond input unit to the first condition automatically sets theauxiliary input unit to the first condition, and setting the secondinput unit to a second condition sets the auxiliary input unit to thesecond condition.
 15. The alarm system for an alarm tag as set forth inclaim 14, further comprising: a microprocessor that receives inputsignals from the first, the second, and the auxiliary input units, and afourth input unit, and generates output signals that actuate one or moreoutput units.
 16. The alarm system for an alarm tag as set forth inclaim 15, wherein: the first input unit is a first sensor switch thatoutputs a first signal when closed to reset and disarm the alarm tag andgenerates a second signal when open to maintain status quo; the secondinput unit is an interlock sensor switch that outputs a third signalwhen closed, coupling an article with the alarm tag and arming the alarmtag, and generates a fourth signal when open to trigger an alarm; theauxiliary input unit is an auxiliary sensor switch that outputs a fifthsignal when closed to arm the alarm tag, and generates a sixth signalwhen open to trigger an alarm; and the fourth input unit is a triggeringunit that generates a seventh signal to trigger an alarm.
 17. The alarmsystem for an alarm tag as set forth in claim 16, wherein: thetriggering unit is a ferrite coil that detects a magnetic surveillancesignal and generates the seventh signal for triggering an alarm if thesecond and auxiliary input units are closed.
 18. The alarm system for analarm tag as set forth in claim 17, wherein: the seventh signal isamplified by an amplifier for further processing.
 19. The alarm systemfor an alarm tag as set forth in claim 18, wherein: the microprocessoris initialized when the first signal is received.
 20. An alarm systemfor an alarm tag, comprising: a first sensor switch for resetting thealarm system of the alarm tag to OFF; a second interlocking sensorswitch for coupling an article with the alarm tag and arming the alarmtag; and a third auxiliary sensor switch that is independent of thefirst sensor switch and the second interlocking sensor switch, but setin conjunction with the second interlocking sensor switch to arm thealarm tag; where when both the second interlock sensor switch and thethird auxiliary sensor switches are closed, the alarm system of thealarm tag is armed and set to ON; and where if the second interlockingsensor switch is tampered, the third auxiliary sensor switch opens totrigger the alarm; wherein the triggering unit is a signal detector thatsenses a surveillance signal and triggers the alarm system upondetecting the surveillance signal based on a predetermined set ofswitching conditions of one or more of the first, second, and thirdswitches.
 21. The alarm system for an alarm tag as set forth in claim20, wherein: closing of the second interlocking sensor switchautomatically closes the third auxiliary sensor switch to arm the alarmtag, and tampering with the second interlocking sensor switch opens thethird auxiliary sensor switch.
 22. An alarm system for an alarm tag,comprising: a plurality of input units associated with a correspondingplurality of independent mechanical and electrical circuitry, including:a first input unit that outputs a first signal to reset and disarm thealarm tag and generates a second signal to maintain status quo, with thefirst and second signals processed through a first independentmechanical and electrical circuitry; a second input unit that outputs athird signal to arm the alarm tag, and generates a fourth signal totrigger an alarm, with the third and fourth signals processed through asecond mechanical and electrical circuitry; a third input unit thatoutputs a fifth signal to arm the alarm tag, and generates a sixthsignal to trigger an alarm; with the fifth and sixth signal processedthrough a third mechanical and electrical circuitry; and a fourth inputunit that generates a seventh signal to trigger an alarm, with theseventh signal processed through a fourth mechanical and electricalcircuitry; wherein the alarm is triggered based on a predetermined setof inputting conditions of one or more of the first, second, and thirdinput units.
 23. An alarm system for an alarm tag as set forth in claim22, wherein: the first input unit is a first sensor switch, comprised ofa magnetic switch; the second input unit is an interlocking sensorswitch; the third input unit is an inconspicuous auxiliary switch thatis set in conjunction with the interlocking sensor switch to arm thealarm tag; and the fourth input unit is a triggering unit that sensesand detects surveillance signals to generate the seventh signal thattriggers an alarm; and where when both the interlock sensor switch andthe auxiliary switch are closed, the alarm system of the alarm tag isarmed and set to ON; and where if the interlocking sensor switch istampered, the auxiliary switch opens to trigger the alarm.
 24. The alarmtag as set forth in claim 3, wherein: a radial protrusion of anunderneath surface of the grip section is fully inserted and housedinside a cavity, surrounded by periphery wall that protects the fastenerplug member against tampering.